“I’ve got you, Sunshine,” Rowan whispers into my hair before kissing behind my ear.
I give him an appreciative smile. “I know.”
Dom is outside, waiting for us with a lit cigarette between his lips. He nods in greeting to me, and I give him a small wave. Blondie leans down and whispers something in his ear as they join our caravan. My cousin is quiet as he trudges across the compound grounds. The chill in the air bites at my skin, and I try to hide my chattering teeth as I take in the pretty houses spaced around the acreage.
“Cold?” Rowan asks before wrapping his arms around me and using his hands to slide along my exposed biceps. His natural heat washes over me, and I thank him for the reprieve.
Logan brings us to a massive three-story ranch-style home. The exterior features a mix of natural stone and cedar siding, and the wide wraparound porch anchors the home's first level. It’s a rustic design that bleeds warmth and elegance, but it’s only in visual appeal to me. I can recognize that this home is cozy, but it isn'tmyhome.
Two men stand on the porch, their hands tucked into the pockets of their thick jackets. One with short brown hair steps forward, nodding at the men surrounding me. “We’reinstructed to keep you out here while they talk.”
Rowan bristles, pulling me tighter against him. “I’m not leaving her fucking side.”
The men share a hostile glance, and I step in before any more blows can be exchanged. I block Rowan’s view of the newcomers, demanding his attention.“I’m fine, baby. I won't be long.”
He hesitates before sighing and kissing my temple. “If you need me, just shout and I'll be there.”
I squeeze his hand one last time as Logan leads me inside.
Chapter Thirty-Four
Addison
Logan passes the spacious kitchen before leading me up a spiral staircase. The home’s walls are overcrowded with sentimental photos, and I pause mid-step when I see a picture of my dad and uncle together. They’re younger as they smile at the camera. It looks like they just finished fishing, and Uncle Ford’s arm is slung across my Dad’s shoulders.
I lift my hand to the memory, my fingers brushing over the glass encasing my Dad’s face. He’s frozen in time, remaining forever memorialized in the lives of those who loved him.
“Why didn't you tell me?” I ask quietly as grief sweeps over me.
“That was the year before you were born,” Logan says from ahead. “They went to the Missouri River to catch trout every fishing season. I’m sure you remember it…”
“I do,” my voice is thick with emotion, and I clear it before my hand falls, and I continue up the stairs.
Logan brings me down a corridor lined with elegant guest rooms, but my eyes focus straight ahead to the ajar office door at the end of the hallway. I can hear my mom’s low voice as she argues with my uncle.
I trudge past my cousin and push the door open harshly. The scene I walk into is unexpected.
My mom, the same height as me and dressed in light-washed Capri pants and a layered cardigan, steps away from my uncle, who is far too close to her, as they crowd near the oak desk. He was towering over her, leaning close as if they were sharing an intimate secret.
“Addie,” Mom clears her throat, brushing her short brown bob behind her ear. Her emerald green eyes, edged with crow’s feet, pin me with relief. “You’re okay—”
“What is going on here?” I can't just ignore what I saw. Not when everything is already sofucked.
Uncle Ford motions with his chin to Logan. “Close the door, son.”
My cousin complies, but I feel trapped. Whatever shit storm they’re about to release won’t keep me here. If anything, my intuition is telling me this is only going to push me further away.
But Ineedto know.
I cross my arms, speaking first. “So, you and Dad knew about the syndicate, but never said a damn word to me?”
Mom sighs, nervously playing with her fingers. “It’s complicated, Addie…”
“Complicated!” I scoff, throwing my head back as I rock on my heels. “Reeealcomplicated, huh? So much so that youhidthis from me!”
Her expression turns contemplative, her dark brows drawing down. “I was protecting you from this.”
I throw my hands out, a breathless laugh of disbelief slipping from me. “From what? From knowing thatmyfamily is involved in organized crime!”
